Halloween Pet Safety Tips for Alpena Pet Owners
Halloween is one of the most exciting nights of the year—for humans, anyway. But if you’re a pet, it can be one of the most stressful. From loud noises and strangers at the door to candy and decorations everywhere, it’s easy to overlook how overwhelming this holiday can be for your four-legged family members.
That’s why it’s important to stay on top of Halloween pet safety here in Alpena and beyond. Below, the team at Switzer Veterinary Clinic offers ways to help you and your pawsome pals stay safe this October.
Candy and Decorations: A (Truly) Scary Combo for Pets
Possibly the most important tip to keep in mind as Halloween approaches is this: candy is dangerous for pets. Period.
Chocolate, xylitol, dried fruits, lollipop sticks, and even candy wrappers can all make your pet seriously sick. These are some of the most common Halloween hazards for pets, and they show up in nearly every trick-or-treat bag at the end of the spooky night.
Another big concern? Decorations. Glow sticks, fake cobwebs, string lights, and even candles can all become hazards if your pet decides to explore or chew on them. Keep any décor well out of reach, and use flameless candles instead of real ones.
How to Keep Pets Safe on the Eerie Eve
Along with keeping candy and decorations out of reach, one of the best things you can do is make sure your pet has proper ID. That means a snug-fitting collar with up-to-date tags, and ideally a microchip, in case Fido or Kitty slips out during the doorbell chaos.
Consider creating a quiet space inside your home—far, far away from the front door—where your pet can relax while trick-or-treaters come and go. Add some calming music, toys, or even a treat puzzle to help them feel secure and entertained.
And what about pet costumes?
Some pets love them. Others, not so much. If your pet doesn’t seem comfortable, it’s totally okay to skip it or go with a simple Halloween-themed bandana. The key is making sure it’s safe, breathable, and doesn’t interfere with their movement, vision, or hearing.
Keep the Spooky Season Fun with Holiday Pet Safety
A little planning goes a long way when it comes to holiday pet safety. By keeping candy out of reach, decorations pet-proofed, and stress levels low, you can help your furry friends stay calm and happy all night long.
If you need to get your pet microchipped or want more help for Halloween-related anxiety, our caring team at Switzer Veterinary Clinic is here for you. Call us at (989) 356-4880 to schedule a pre-festivities appointment today.